History
Exact origins of Crump's Opera Hall/Theatre are debated among certain circles at this point in time, with both "Opera Hall and Theatre" lumped into one generalized category. Checking different sites on the internet, you'll find some say the Crump began its operations in 1874. Where this date originated, I am uncertain. The date is definitely not right.
If you want to get down to those proverbial brass tacks, it all depends on whether you are talking about "Crump's Opera Hall," or "J. S. Crump's New Theatre."
In 1872, Francis J. Crump (John Crump's father), contracted for a "new" Opera Hall to be built. The building was located on the northeast corner of Washington Street.
"The street floor of Crump's new building is being rapidly fitted up. One room is already occupied by a provisional store," the Republican reported on Thursday, May 23, 1872.
Although it is unknown at this point in time who Francis contracted to build the Opera Hall, once the structure was in place, he hired Hege, Mathes & Company to finish the woodwork. The month was July and it was hoped the new hall would be open by September. September came and went, and on October 26, 1872, the Republican reported: "Crump's new Opera Hall is just about completed. Its appearance has been much improved by the beautiful frescoing of the ceiling. Mr. Reynolds, the artist, and his assistant have done their work in a manner that reflects much credit on themselves. Columbus has now a hall of which none of her citizens need be ashamed, though, it is much regretted that Mr. Crump did not build it a little more in the style of an opera house."
On October 31, 1872, the Republican reported: "The Columbus Dramatic Club propose giving an entertainment on Wednesday evening, November 6, at Crump's New Opera Hall. 'The Robber Wife' and 'Slasher and Crasher' will be represented." There was another article in the paper concerning the performance given on Monday, October 28, 1872, by White and Turner's troupe, the very first performance at the place on that grand opening day.
Crump's Opera Hall was located on the northeast corner of 4th and Washington Streets. In Will Marsh's book, I Discover Columbus, he speaks of Crump's Opera Hall being on the corner of 4th and Washington, then in another sentence, he says it was just above the corner. Luckily, the exact location has been verified by an ad in the Republican, 1972, for J. B. Cobb's Books and Stationery.
